Fiber optic light diffuser

Abstract

Heat and light generating, fiber optic, cylindrical diffusers are structured to operate more efficiently and with increased uniformity by the inclusion of rings of prescribed indicies of refraction about the unclad distal end portion of the diffuser. Such a diffuser also includes a conical distal tip. A sealed Teflon (TM) sleeve containing diffusing material in place over the entire length of the diffuser also improves the uniformity of heat distribution.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A cylindrical diffuser comprising an optical fiber having a proximal and a distal end, said fiber including a cladding for reflecting light back into said fiber and a protective sheath thereabout, said fiber including a distal end portion from which said cladding and said sheath are removed, said distal end portion including a ring of a material to reflect light back into said portion for providing a relatively even distribution of light and thus even distribution of heat in human or animal tissue at said distal end portion said diffuser including a sleeve enclosing said distal end portion and connecting to said clad portion, said sleeve and said distal end portion having conical shapes. 
     
     
       2. A diffuser as set forth in claim 1 including a plurality of rings spaced apart from one another along said distal end portion. 
     
     
       3. A diffuser as set forth in claim 2 wherein said rings are of relatively low index of refraction material. 
     
     
       4. A diffuser as set forth in claim 2 wherein said rings are of equal thicknesses, widths and spacings. 
     
     
       5. A diffuser as set forth in claim 4 wherein said rings are of relatively low like indicies of refraction. 
     
     
       6. A diffuser as set forth in claim 4 wherein said rings are of materials with different indicies of refraction. 
     
     
       7. A diffuser as set forth in claim 2 wherein said rings are of different thicknesses, widths and spacings. 
     
     
       8. A diffuser as set forth in claim 2 wherein said sheath comprises Teflon (TM) and includes a sleeve attached to said sheath and forming a chamber around said distal end portion, said chamber including light scattering material. 
     
     
       9. A diffuser as set forth in claim 3 wherein said rings comprise different materials from one another.